Shows
Toy Federation PodcastVideo Game Memories, Dear Kenner Letters & Chasing Down The Mail Man - Toy Federation PodcastJoin the crew from Toy Federation in Greer, SC, for a deep dive into the world of toy collecting, spanning from the 1980s to the 2020s. In this episode of the Toy Federation Podcast, hosts Ryan, Travis, and Andy share nostalgic stories about ordering replacement parts from Kenner and dealing with modern customer service from toy companies like Hasbro. The conversation covers everything from the rarity of Star Wars Power of the Force coins and Return of the Jedi proof cards to the hunt for rare GI Joe prototypes. Beyond action figures, the team also discusses the video games...
2026-01-3050 minToy Federation PodcastIs the 1980s G.I. Joe Toy Line Still the Best in the Franchise? - Toy Federation PodcastYo, Joe! Join Ryan, Travis, and Andy on the Toy Federation Podcast as they tackle the ultimate question: Is the 1980s G.I. Joe toy line still the best in the franchise? This episode is a must-watch for retro toy collectors interested in the evolution of G.I. Joe from the 1980s to the 2020s, featuring deep dives into the lore of G.I. Joe and Cobra, the transition from Marvel Comics to the iconic Sunbow and DIC cartoons, and the "battle jazz" that defined a generation. We explore the history of other legendary franchises like He-Man (MOTU), Transformers...
2026-01-0253 minToy Federation PodcastWhat Do Toy Vendors Get Their Kids For Christmas? - Toy Federation PodcastJoin the Toy Federation Podcast for a special holiday episode where Ryan, Travis, and Andy reflect on their evolution from kids unwrapping gifts to toy store owners and parents striving to recreate that Christmas morning magic for their own children. Drawing on decades of experience, they discuss the unique dynamics of being in the "toy business" where it feels like Christmas every day, allowing them to introduce the next generation to vintage Star Wars and G.I. Joe figures while also navigating modern hits like Bluey, Monster High, and Marvel Legends. This deep dive into toy collecting from the 1980...
2025-12-2647 minToy Federation PodcastWe Had a Toy Federation Panel For Our Fans At Our Retro-Toy Con!is special podcast episode, recorded live from the Retro-Toy Convention, is your deep dive into the passionate world of vintage and modern toy collecting. Join Ryan, Travis, Andy, and Devin as they discuss this "toy paradise" dedicated to nostalgic games, comics, and characters. The conversation is tailored for collectors interested in toys spanning four decades, featuring heavy discussion on classic toys from the 1980s and 1990s—including G.I. Joe, He-Man, Star Wars, and Transformers—as well as newer items. The hosts provide an insider look at the show’s success, emphasizing the focus on quality vendors who bring their...
2025-11-2844 minToy Federation PodcastThese Parts Could Increase the Value of Your Toy Collection! - Toy Federation PodcastWelcome to the Toy Federation Podcast, where Ryan, Travis, and Andy tackle the ultimate challenge for vintage toy collectors: identifying the most common missing parts or frequently lost items across major collectible lines spanning the 1980s through the 2020s. This episode is essential viewing for anyone who loves toy hunting or thrifting, providing crucial knowledge on what rare toy accessories to look for to complete your figures, vehicles, or to flip to fund your hobby. We break down specific valuable parts for lines like G.I. Joe, Transformers, He-Man, and Star Wars. We also cover tough accessories from Teenage...
2025-11-1447 minToy Federation PodcastHow Could We Know? - Toy Federation PodcastWelcome back to the Toy Federation podcast with hosts Ryan, Travis, and Andy, where they dive into the dramatic and complex reality of buying and selling collectibles ranging from the 1980s to the 2020s. This episode explores several unbelievable stories encountered running a retail toy shop, including follow-ups on the highly-discussed episode featuring a collection from a "divorced lady," which included high-value G1 Transformers mixed with bootlegs, knockoffs, and modern repros. The hosts discuss the challenges of authenticating vintage toys and detecting sophisticated recards and reproduction inserts in lines like Star Wars and G.I. Joe, which often deceive...
2025-11-0750 minToy Federation PodcastToy Federation Podcast LIVE! Halloween Special 10/30/25Happy Halloween! The Toy Federation Podcast is LIVE from Toy Federation in Greer, SC! Join toy store owner Ryan Bonavia and his co-hosts Travis and Andy as they share their professional insight on all things toys while discussing the world of collecting, pop culture, and the toy industry itself. Through conversations focusing on hit toy lines as old as Masters of the Universe, Star Wars, G.I.Joe, Transformers and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles to newer indie toy trendsetters, Toy Federation shares their experiences running a busy toy store and addresses the challenges of buying and selling toy collections...
2025-10-311h 41Toy Federation PodcastOur Favorite Toy Stores Growing Up! - Toy Federation PodcastTune in to Toy Federation with Ryan, Andy, and Travis as they delve into the nostalgic topic of their favorite toy stores growing up and examine how the toy collecting experience has changed from the 1980s through the 2020s. This episode is essential for anyone interested in vintage toys and retail history, as the hosts vividly recall the massive, floor-to-ceiling stock at legendary locations like Toys R Us and Child World, contrasted with the unique appeal of regional stores such as Lionel Play World, Kmart, and department stores like Sears. They discuss the glory days of seeing endless walls...
2025-10-0350 min
Making It in The Toy Industry#288: How an Industry Veteran Rebuilt His Toy Knowledge Through TCA with Gerardo DavilaEvery once in a while, I meet a toypreneur whose journey reminds me why I started this podcast… and today’s guest is one of those people.In this episode, we’re bringing back the story of a Toy Creators Academy grad who went from leading sales at Mattel to launching a heartfelt plush brand that’s changing bedtime for kids everywhere.Meet Gerardo Davila, the creator of Angelitos Mágicos, a magical line of plush guardian angels that deliver encouraging messages to children overnight. What started as a way to comfort his own daughter turned in...
2025-10-0227 minToy Federation PodcastWe Just Ran Our First Horror Convention! -Toy Federation PodcastWelcome to the Toy Federation Podcast after the successful Retro-Horror Con after show, where the hosts dive deep into running their ambitious new venture: an "everything toy show" with a horror theme. Unlike most horror shows, which often lack a strong toy vendor base, this convention was designed specifically to be family-friendly and appeal to collectors interested in toys from across the decades. The show successfully merged interest in vintage toys with an array of modern collectibles, including popular lines like Funkos, NECA, Legends figures, and blind boxes. Listen as the team discusses the impressive turnout, securing high-profile guests...
2025-09-2643 minToy Federation PodcastCon Prepping, Comics, & Commercials - Toy Federation PodcastDive into the latest Toy Federation podcast where hosts share invaluable toy convention setup tips for toy vendors and collectors alike! Whether you're a seasoned seller or preparing for your first Retro Toycon, this episode covers optimizing booth display, crucial pricing strategies for vintage toys (including avoiding price gun damage and using sticky notes), and engaging with customers effectively. The discussion also takes a nostalgic trip back to the 1980s and 1990s, exploring the impact of Transformers the Movie (and Optimus Prime's death!) and G.I. Joe the Movie, along with experiences in comic book collecting (from its 90s...
2025-09-1948 minToy Federation PodcastInsider Tips to Toy Collecting - Toy Federation PodcastWelcome to the Toy Federation podcast with Ryan, Travis, and Andy, your ultimate guide to toy collecting from the 1980s to the 2020s! In this episode, the team shares insider tips and advice for collecting, encouraging listeners to collect what they genuinely like and enjoy rather than focusing solely on potential profit or market trends. They dive into discussions about diverse toy lines, from tracking down "worthless" '90s Star Wars figures with missing parts to the surprising value appreciation of initially unpopular Tron Legacy figures. The conversation covers the complexities of the modern toy market, including Hasbro's strategies...
2025-09-1241 minToy Federation PodcastIs Visiting Toy Federation on Your Bucket List? - Toy Federation PodcastJoin Ryan, Travis, and Andy from Toy Federation, a toy store in Greer, South Carolina, for their latest toy podcast! This episode primarily explores the widespread practice of figure reuse and repurposing across various toy lines, from classic Transformers to modern Marvel action figures. They also discuss the evolution of Star Wars Black Series figures, noting improvements in face sculpts over time and the impact of bootlegs and knockoffs on the secondary market. Beyond toy manufacturing, the hosts offer insights into the toy collecting market, sharing experiences with customers, valuing rare items (and identifying scams), and even their own...
2025-09-0544 minToy Federation PodcastAdding Original G.I. Joe Box Art to My Collection! - Toy Federation PodcastWelcome back to Toy Federation! In this episode, Ryan, Travis, and Andy dive deep into the fascinating world of iconic toy packaging, box art, and card art from the 1980s to 2020s. Discover toys with some of the most exciting packaging like He-Man's Castle Grayskull and the G.I. Joe Electric Train and Battle Set from Tyco, and lesser enjoyable toys worth buying for the cool box art alone. The conversation covers the evolution of appreciating toy art from childhood to adulthood, the allure of original production art for lines such as Star Wars and unreleased Robocop figures, and...
2025-08-2955 minToy Federation PodcastToy Federation Podcast LIVE! 8/21/25 Discussing Everything Toys, Collecting, Pop Culture, and more!!The Toy Federation Podcast is LIVE from Toy Federation in Greer, SC! Join toy store owner Ryan Bonavia and his co-hosts Travis and Andy as they share their professional insight on all things toys while discussing the world of collecting, pop culture, and the toy industry itself. Through conversations focusing on hit toy lines as old as Masters of the Universe, Star Wars, G.I.Joe, Transformers and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles to newer indie toy trendsetters, Toy Federation shares their experiences running a busy toy store and addresses the challenges of buying and selling toy collections from across...
2025-08-221h 37Toy Federation PodcastHollywood's Biggest Missed Opportunities for Toy Lines? - Toy Federation PodcastOn this week's Toy Federation Podcast, Ryan, Travis, and Andy discuss movie-themed toy lines they wished had been produced, particularly from the '80s and '90s, highlighting the distinction between R-rated films and their cartoon adaptations that did get toys. They also touch on the evolution of action figures, from McFarland's revolutionizing the market with more static but well-posed figures to the current trend of companies re-releasing slightly altered versions of popular figures. The hosts also briefly discuss the history of Hasbro's toy lines, like G.I. Joe and Transformers, and their eventual transition towards a more corporate...
2025-08-0850 minToy Federation PodcastToy Federation Podcast LIVE! 7/10/25 Discussing Everything Toys, Collecting, Pop Culture, and more!!The Toy Federation Podcast is LIVE from Toy Federation in Greer, SC! Join toy store owner Ryan Bonavia and his co-hosts Travis and Andy as they share their professional insight on all things toys while discussing the world of collecting, pop culture, and the toy industry itself. Through conversations focusing on hit toy lines as old as Masters of the Universe, Star Wars, G.I.Joe, Transformers and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles to newer indie toy trendsetters, Toy Federation shares their experiences running a busy toy store and addresses the challenges of buying and selling toy collections from across...
2025-07-111h 34Toy Federation PodcastThese Were Made for Kids?! - Toy Federation PodcastThis episode of Toy Federation dives deep into the fascinating and often controversial world of toys based on R-rated movies from the 1980s, exploring how parental concerns and industry standards for what was considered "kid-friendly" have dramatically evolved. Join Ryan, Travis, and Andy as they reminisce about early, quickly canceled examples like the Alien and Freddy Krueger action figures and the challenges toy companies faced with public outcry from mothers. The discussion spans iconic R-rated properties such as Conan, Freddy Krueger from A Nightmare on Elm Street (including rare talking figures and the ill-fated Maxx Fx line that controversially...
2025-07-0455 minToy Federation PodcastMost Reliable Toy Collecting Books? - Toy Federation PodcastJoin Ryan, Travis, and Andy from Toy Federation in Greer, SC as they dive deep into the fascinating world of vintage toy collecting, repair, and valuation! This episode uncovers the frustrating realities of restoring classic '80s and '90s toys like the Ewok Village (notoriously difficult to disassemble without breaking), G1 Transformer figures like Mirage (plagued by "gold plastic syndrome" and brittle blue plastic), and the fragile Power Rangers Mega Voyager Megazord. Learn about their practical approaches to identifying rare parts and understanding market trends, from utilizing vintage catalogs and specialized books to exploring the evolving capabilities of...
2025-06-2745 minToy Federation PodcastLove Them or Hate Them --- Best and Worst Toy Gimmicks! - Toy Federation PodcastJoin Ryan, Travis, and Andy from Toy Federation as they dive into the fascinating world of toy gimmicks! In this episode, they discuss everything from beloved classics like glow-in-the-dark figures, rocket-firing prototypes, and cap gun action features to less successful innovations such as pre-posed action figures, messy slime toys, and the obscure Tacky Stretchoid Warriors. They also share insights from running a toy store and organizing toy shows like Retro-Toy Con, covering the business of toys, collecting challenges, market trends, and the curious phenomenon of "speaking toys into existence". Whether you're a fan of He-Man, GI Joe, Ninja Turtles...
2025-06-1353 minToy Federation PodcastDid You Miss Us? - Toy Federation PodcastThe Toy Federation Podcast is back, offering a blend of expert insight and conversational discussion about the world of toy collecting. Primarily focusing on action figures, the podcast dives into topics like navigating complex toy variations found in lines such as Star Wars and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles while examining the impact of major toy company license changes like those involving DC Comic properties and Power Rangers. The hosts share experiences from running a busy toy store, discussing the challenges of buying and selling toy collections from across the country and even the world, dealing with variations in packaging...
2025-05-3142 minToy Federation PodcastThe Golden Age of Toy Hunting - Toy Federation PodcastThe Golden Age of Toy Hunting: The Thrill of the Chase at Walmart and Toys "R" UsIn the era before online shopping became the norm, toy hunting was a thrilling adventure that involved physically scouring the aisles of big-box stores like Walmart and Toys "R" Us. This golden age of toy hunting, spanning from the late 1970s through the 1990s and early 2000s, was characterized by the excitement of the hunt, the joy of discovery, and the camaraderie among fellow collectors.The Quest for TreasuresDuring this time, toy collectors were on a constant quest for the latest and most...
2025-05-1603 minToy Federation PodcastWe Expanded the Toy Store!Toy Federation Expansion & Vintage Toy Line Spotlight | He-Man, G.I. Joe, MOTU, Star WarsDescription:Welcome to another exciting episode of the Toy Federation Podcast! In this episode, the Toy Federation crew takes you on a journey through the recent expansion of our beloved toy store. We’ve been working hard to bring you an even more incredible selection of vintage and modern toys, and we can't wait to share all the details with you.First up, we'll give you an exclusive look at the new sections of our store. From additional display areas to new shelving setups, we've made si...
2025-05-1645 minToy Federation PodcastWhat Happened to Toy Stores!? - Toy Federation PodcastWelcome to the Toy Federation Podcast! In this special episode, recorded live at JoeFest 2024, Ryan and Tony take a nostalgic journey through the history of toy stores in America. Join us as we dive deep into the rise and fall of these beloved retail havens, exploring what made them magical and why so many have disappeared from the landscape.The Golden Age of Toy StoresRyan and Tony kick things off by reminiscing about the golden age of toy stores. Remember the excitement of walking into a Toys "R" Us or KB Toys, where the aisles were filled with the...
2025-05-1652 minToy Federation PodcastI TOOK OVER HIS TOY STORE! - TOY FEDERATION PODCASTThe Toy Federation Story: How We Met & Started Our Toy Store Journey!Description:Join us in this special episode as the Toy Federation team takes you on a nostalgic trip down memory lane! 🎉 Discover how our passion for toys brought us together and led to the creation of the Toy Federation store you know and love today. In this heartfelt discussion, we share our origin stories, the serendipitous moments that connected us, and the exciting journey of taking over and transforming an existing toy store into our very own haven for collectors and enthusiasts.Get an insider look at:How...
2025-05-1648 minToy Federation PodcastDo We Remember Our Childhood Comics and Toys? - Toy Federation PodcastToy Federation Podcast: Nostalgic Dive into Childhood Toys - Star Wars, Batman, He-Man & More!Welcome to the Toy Federation Podcast, where we take you on a nostalgic journey through the iconic toys and action figures that defined our childhoods! In this episode, our passionate team of Toy Federation employees shares their personal memories and stories about the classic toys they cherished growing up. From epic Star Wars battles to heroic adventures with Batman, He-Man, GI Joe, and the lesser-known but equally beloved Tiger Sharks, we've got it all covered!🎙️ In This Episode:Star Wars: Relive the magic of the galax...
2025-05-1638 minToy Federation PodcastThe Toy Store Isn't the Same Now - Toy Federation PodcastThe Hardest Toys to Get and Keep, Original He-Man Movie, Planet Hollywood Collectibles, and Vintage Star Wars Figures! | Toy Federation Podcast🎉 Welcome back to the Toy Federation Podcast! 🎉In this exciting episode, our dedicated Toy Federation staff dives deep into the world of elusive toys, classic movies, and vintage collectibles that make every collector’s heart race. Join us as we share insider stories, expert opinions, and nostalgic memories that make toy collecting such a thrilling hobby.🎙️ In This Episode:🔹 The Hardest Toys to Get and KeepEver wondered which toys are the most challenging to find and keep on the shelves? Our...
2025-05-1626 minToy Federation PodcastWhat are the Worst Action Figures EVER MADE! - Toy Federation PodcastWelcome to the Toy Federation Podcast, your ultimate destination for all things action figures, collectibles, and pop culture! In this episode, we dive deep into the fascinating world of action figures and collectibles, highlighting some of the worst action figures ever made, sharing behind-the-scenes stories of celebrity signings at our store, and exploring beloved franchises like Batman, G.I. Joe, Transformers, Vintage Star Wars, and Marvel Legends.Join the Toy Federation staff as we embark on a nostalgic journey through the world of action figures, shining a spotlight on the toys that didn’t quite hit the mark. In th...
2025-05-1654 minToy Federation PodcastIs Selling on Ebay Worth It? - Toy Federation Podcast🚀 Welcome to the Toy Federation Podcast – your ultimate destination for all things toys, collectibles, and nostalgia! Join us on an exciting journey as we delve into the world of toy culture, sharing our experiences, insights, and stories that make our passion for toys come alive.In this episode, we're thrilled to share with you the exciting news of our expansion into a bigger toy store! It's been an incredible journey filled with ups and downs, but through dedication, hard work, and the unwavering support of our amazing community, we've reached this significant milestone.Joining us are some of the passi...
2025-05-1629 minToy Federation PodcastWhy We Hate Funko Pops... And What We Do Like! - Toy Federation Podcast"Why We Hate Funko Pops and Our Favorite Toys | Toy Federation Podcast"Welcome back to another exciting episode of the Toy Federation Podcast! In today’s episode, the Toy Federation team dives deep into a topic that’s been brewing for a while: why we hate Funko Pops. We know this might be controversial, but stick with us as we break down our thoughts and feelings about these ubiquitous vinyl figures.Why We Hate Funko PopsFirst up, we get into the nitty-gritty of why Funko Pops don’t make the cut for us. While they have their legion of fans...
2025-05-1640 minToy Federation PodcastThe Problem with Comic Con . . . - Toy Federation Podcast🎙️ Welcome to the Toy Federation Podcast! 🎙️Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of vintage toys and explore the excitement surrounding our annual event, Retro-Toy Con, held right here in Greenville, South Carolina!In this episode, our passionate team at Toy Federation shares exclusive insights and behind-the-scenes stories about Retro-Toy Con, the ultimate gathering for vintage toy enthusiasts. From nostalgic childhood favorites to rare collectibles, we cover it all!🔊 Special Guests:Get ready to geek out as we reminisce about past Retro-Toy Con events featuring iconic guests such as the voices of the original Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles carto...
2025-05-1542 minToy Federation PodcastThese Cause Problems… - Toy Federation Podcast🎙️ Welcome to the Toy Federation Podcast Channel! 🎙️Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of vintage toys on our weekly podcast series. At Toy Federation, we're not just a store; we're passionate collectors, historians, and enthusiasts of all things toys. In each episode, our knowledgeable staff members gather to discuss various topics ranging from the rarest finds to the most elusive toy lines in history.In this week's episode, we're diving deep into the realm of collectibles to explore the hardest toys and toy lines to get your hands on. From limited edition releases to discontinued favorites, we'll expl...
2025-05-1552 minToy Federation PodcastWhat Really Happens With Our Trades - Toy Federation Podcast🎙️ Welcome to the Toy Federation Podcast, where vintage toy enthusiasts gather to discuss all things retro and collectible! In this episode, join us as we dive into the heart of controversy and revisit some of our most contentious moments on the Toy Federation YouTube channel.From heated debates over the authenticity of rare collectibles to passionate discussions about the cultural impact of beloved toy franchises, our team leaves no stone unturned. Join hosts [Host Names] and the rest of the Toy Federation crew as they reflect on the episodes that sparked controversy, challenged perspectives, and ignited the imagination of toy e...
2025-05-1541 minToy Federation PodcastWhy We Don't Ship Toys! - Toy Federation PodcastThe Toy Federation JourneyJoin us in this special episode of the Toy Federation podcast as we take a nostalgic trip down memory lane and reflect on our journey since launching our YouTube channel. From humble beginnings to skyrocketing success, our team discusses how embracing the digital world has transformed our business and connected us with toy enthusiasts worldwide.Tune in as we share behind-the-scenes stories of filming, unboxing, and reviewing the latest toy releases. Discover the secrets behind our viral videos and how they've fueled our growth both online and in-store. We delve into the fascinating world of toy...
2025-05-1534 min
Making It in The Toy Industry#267: Winning a TOTY Award and Scaling a Toy Business Through 3D Printing with Solobo ToysCan 3D printing really replace traditional toy manufacturing? One founder says “absolutely” and she’s got the award to prove it.In this episode, I’m chatting with the amazing Courtney Peebles, founder of Solobo Toys, about how she won a TOTY Award for her hit plush toy, Emotional Baggage, and how rising manufacturing challenges pushed her to transform her business using 3D printed toys.Courtney gets real about the challenges she faced with manufacturing overseas, and how jumping into 3D printed toys...
2025-04-2347 min
Making It in The Toy Industry#265: Navigating the Tariff Changes in The Toy Industry | April 2025Is it time to stop manufacturing overseas? Or are these tariffs just temporary chaos?In this episode we're talking about the massive new tariffs shaking up the toy industry and what they mean for your bottom line. With import costs from China jumping up to 54% April 2nd, and a potential 104% threat looming over the horizon, toy creators everywhere are wondering what to do next. Should you absorb the cost? Raise prices? Cancel a launch? Shift production? I’ll walk you through what’s really happening, what’s coming next, and how to make a smart move without panick...
2025-04-091h 03
Making It in The Toy Industry#261: NY Toy Fair 2025 Exclusive Interview with Thin Air BrandsAre tariffs here to stay or not? That was the hot topic at New York Toy Fair 2025, and trust me—it’s still got the toy industry buzzing. In Q1 of 2025, the Trump administration announced a 20% tariff on Chinese imports, and with 80% of all toys made in China, manufacturers, retailers, and consumers are all bracing for impact.So, who's really going to absorb these extra costs? Will factories take the hit? Will retailers adjust their pricing? Or will consumers end up paying the price?Inspired by a thought-provoking LinkedIn post from Mike Searls, founder of Thin...
2025-03-1241 min
Making It in The Toy Industry#260: NY Toy Fair 2025 Exclusive Interview with Jayson Esterow & Gavin LawlerAfter four days of running (literally) from booth to booth, taking meetings, and soaking in the latest trends, I’m here to give you an inside look at what went down at New York Toy Fair 2025. If you missed New York Toy Fair or couldn’t see everything, check out this first episode of NY Toy Fair 2025 Exclusive Interview Series.Over the next month and a half, I’ll be taking you inside the show floor for exclusive interviews with toy designers, licensors, CEO’s, entrepreneurs and inventors who are Making It In The Toy Industry!In thi...
2025-03-0628 min
Making It in The Toy Industry#259: How to Maximize Your Experience at Toy Fair New York 2025So, you’re going to Toy Fair New York this year, but you aren’t sure you’re making the most of your trip? It’s true, without a solid plan, walking into Toy Fair New York can be completely overwhelming. You can easily get lost in a few friendly conversations, pass too much time playing with toys at welcoming booths, and end up missing opportunities to grow your business, or sell your ideas. Once you walk through the doors of the Javits Center, the impact of the show is bound to hit you. So...
2025-02-2642 min
Making It in The Toy Industry#257: How To Win Over Buyers at Toy Fair with Barry & JasonNew York Toy Fair is just around the corner and if you’re preparing to launch your toy or game at this event, learn this lesson: it WON’T sell itself! Buyers see hundreds of pitches, and even the best ideas can get lost in the noise.The real secret? It’s not just what you pitch, but HOW you pitch it. So, how do you make buyers stop, pay attention, and want to play? That’s exactly why I’m bringing back an episode with Barry McLaughlin & Jason Lautenschleger, who share how to pitch and stand o...
2025-02-1247 min
Making It in The Toy Industry#252: How One Company’s Bubble Toy Got Nominated For A Major Toy Award with Ron WeizmanThe highest honor your toy can get in this industry is the Toy of the Year® (TOTY®). This award is so coveted, that just a nomination alone has been said to boost sales and recognition of the brands lucky enough to earn one. A TOTY win can trigger a flood of retailers knocking on your door, desperate to get your product on their shelves.So what does it take to get a TOTY nomination? That’s what we’re breaking down in today’s episode.In this episode, Ron Weizman, co-founder of South Beach Bubbles shares h...
2025-01-0136 min
Making It in The Toy Industry#234: Avoid These 3 Common Mistakes When Working with a Toy FactoryTime for a little tough love toy-coaching: If you're struggling to develop a pre-production sample of your toy that you're proud of, the problem might be you! This week on the podcast, you'll learn 3 common mistakes that new toy creators make when working with overseas factories. This episode includes insights from my full time work in the toy industry and my 1:1 client work. When applied correctly, the 3 lessons taught in this episode will save you time and money in the toy development process.Why You Should Be Pantone ObsessedBeing Pantone-obsessed can m...
2024-08-2828 min
Making It in The Toy Industry#230: How She Invented A Plush Toy and Licensed The Idea For Passive IncomeHave you ever wondered if it were possible to sell your toy idea instead of the finished product? Today’s podcast episode follows one creator, who does just that.Today’s guest Joanna Paul, shares her journey of developing Moodles (formerly known as "What's Its Face?"), a patentable plush invention designed to help children understand and express their emotions. From the initial concept inspired by her own experiences as a mom to the challenges of patenting and licensing, Joanna's toy story is a testament to the power of persistence and adaptability in the toy industry.Thro...
2024-07-3143 min
Making It in The Toy Industry#228: Why You're Not Hearing Back from Top Toy Companies and What To Do InsteadTired of Toy Companies Ghosting you? You're not alone! You know the toy industry needs fresh ideas, and you're confident you've got the next big thing. But here's the truth: your amazing concept is only as powerful as your network and pitch skills.So in this episode, we're breaking down:The real reasons toy companies might not be responding to your submissions (and it's not what you think!)Step-by-step strategies to finally get noticed and get a responseHow to access toy company wish lists (yes, they exist, and they're game-changers!)But that's not a...
2024-07-1028 min
Making It in The Toy Industry#226: This Toy Delivers Real Mail Every Week To Kids Across The Globe with Wendy LattimoreCan Snail Mail Still Captivate Today's Tech-Savvy Kids? Are today's digital-native children still charmed by the simple pleasure of receiving a physical letter? In Episode 226 of the "Making It in the Toy Industry" podcast, Virginia Lette engages with Wendy Lattimore, a successful graduate of the Toy Creators Academy (TCA), to explore this fascinating topic. Wendy's inspiring journey from traditional mail to innovative toy creation will challenge your perceptions of outdated communication methods.From Executive Assistant to Innovative Toy Creator Meet Wendy Lattimore, an executive assistant and innovative toy entrepreneur. Her journey beg...
2024-06-2625 min
Making It in The Toy Industry#225: The Secrets of A Successful Toy Licensing Deal with Lee AllentuckIs Your Pitch Ready For The Toy Industry? Pitching your innovative toy idea to industry giants can be as daunting as a job interview. In this episode of "Making it in the Toy Industry," hosts Azhelle Wade and Lee Allentuck demystify the art and science of pitching, with insider tips that will revolutionize your approach to securing those golden licensing deals. Whether you're a seasoned inventor or a newbie in the toy world, there's a nugget of wisdom here for everyone.What are the secrets to a successful toy pitch?Episode 225 zeroes in on the nuanced...
2024-06-1946 min
Making It in The Toy Industry#224: This ONE Media Event Could Make Your Toy Brand Go Viral 📈Toy trade shows are NOT the only way to get your brand noticed. Your toy brand could go viral after attending a toy industry media event. In this episode of "Making It in the Toy Industry," Azhelle Wade shares the juicy details behind influencer events and media showcases like Sweet Suite and Holiday of Play. These industry gatherings are hidden gems for toy and game creators looking to snag media attention and make lasting impressions without the hustle and bustle of traditional trade shows. Already planning to attend Sweet Suite? Hit play on this episode to learn how to...
2024-06-1221 min
Making It in The Toy Industry#219: Why He Went From Mattel to TCA and Launched His Plush ToyQ: Could TCA be valuable to you if you already have corporate toy industry experience? A: YES! Perhaps you think that having professional toy industry experience guarantees success in your entrepreneurial ventures. But this episode turns that notion on its head, featuring Gerardo, a former toy industry professional turned toy entrepreneur, charting his own course through the toy market with a little help from the Toy Creators Academy.From his previous role managing commercial operations in Latin America for Mattel to launching his own line of guardian angel plush dolls, Gerardo’s journey is nothing short of in...
2024-05-0827 min
Making It in The Toy Industry#217: How To Make Your Toy Brand Climate Friendly with Helen TownsendIn the face of a looming climate crisis, can the toy industry lead the charge towards a sustainable future? Well today’s interview guest believes the toy industry has a responsibility to address the environmental impact of our industry. Helen Townsend, co-founder of the B Corp certified toy company Sustained Fun, dives into the critical role that toy companies can play in reducing emissions and increasing environmental education.Even if your toy company isn’t an eco-first brand, this episode provides a step by step explanation on how you can start calculating and offsetting your carbon emissions. This i...
2024-04-2440 min
Making It in The Toy Industry#213: From Empath to Entrepreneur with Jana Hallam of Wonderwell Toy CompanyKids today are facing a kindness crisis. From the playground to the classroom, loneliness and bullying run rampant. But there's hope on the horizon, thanks to one toy designer's mission to spark empathy through play. Meet Jana Hallam, TCA alumni and the visionary founder of Wonderwell Toy Co.In this inspiring episode, Jana opens up to guest host Virginia Lette, about her journey from an emotionally attuned child to a kindness crusader for the modern age. You'll discover how a frustrating Christmas tradition kickstarted her quest to create The Kindness Mouse - an engaging plush toy, storybook...
2024-03-2727 min
Making It in The Toy Industry#211: How To Efficiently Communicate Your Toy's Value Through Packaging with Anchor CreativeYour toy package should be the 24/7 salesman for your toy product. Is your packaging putting in the work? If you have ever wondered how to make your packaging communicate the value of your product, I’ve got a new episode that you just can't miss. As one of our guests today will attest, often toy packaging is an afterthought, but what if I told you it's one of your most powerful communication tools?In this episode, I had the privilege of diving deep into the art of communication in packaging design with Brittany and Ivan Wesley, the ma...
2024-03-1329 min
Making It in The Toy Industry#210: An Insider Look at A National Toy Trade Show in Las VegasHave you heard about the Toy Trade Show that happened in Las Vegas? It’s called Toy Fest and I just dropped an episode all about it in case you missed it! In this episode I’m sharing quotes from the diverse range of attendees, breaking down emerging trends and highlighting innovations showcased on the floor and in the showrooms.Discover why Toy Fest should be at the top of your list if you're considering bringing a new toy line to market. With insights from exhibitors, buyers, and seasoned toy veterans, you'll gain invaluable knowledge about what's hot...
2024-03-0625 min
Making It in The Toy Industry#209: How Women in the Toy Industry Are Building Dreams and Connections with Ehi Oviasu-KahnRight now you might feel like an outsider in the toy industry. But it’s important to remember that we ALL started out that way. The goal of today’s podcast episode is to show you how you can go from zero connections in the world of toys, to thousands! Yep, thousands.To teach that lesson, I’m bringing you part two of my interview with Ehi Oviasu-Kahn, where you’ll hear how she went from the spark of an idea in her kitchen, to becoming a pivotal figure at Women in Toys, Licensing, and Entertainment (WiT). Ehi's na...
2024-02-2818 minMaking It in The Toy Industry#208: When Motherhood Inspires Toy Invention with Ehi Oviasu-KahnHave you ever wondered what drives the passion behind toy inventors? In this compelling episode of Making It in the Toy Industry, we dive deep with Ehi Oviasu-Kahn, the dynamic chairwoman of the Board of Directors of Women in Toys Licensing and Entertainment, and the creative mind behind Little Art. Discover how the quest to entertain and educate her daughter during the pandemic led to the birth of a new toy company. Ehi shares her journey from attorney to toy inventor, driven by the desire to merge art, play, and developmental learning into unique toys for children....
2024-02-2125 minMaking It in The Toy Industry#202: Gender Neutral Toy Sections Are Now Law In CaliforniaHow does the recent California law mandating gender-neutral toy sections in large retail stores impact the toy industry? This episode takes a deep dive into the nuances of this legislative change and its potential ripple effects on manufacturers, retailers, and consumers.The episode revisits a critical discussion from October 2021, examining the intricate details and recent amendments of the bill turned into law. We explore the initial intentions of the bill, which aimed to encompass childcare items, children's clothing, and toys, and discuss the significant changes it underwent before becoming law. One of the notable alterations...
2024-01-1040 minMaking It in The Toy Industry#201: 12 SMART Goals To Launch Your Toy Idea in 2024Are you ready to transform your toy idea into a market-ready product by the end of 2024 but unsure where to start? Then you’ve chosen the perfect episode to dive into! In just 26 minutes, get a month-by-month blueprint, detailing 12 SMART goals to lead you into a soft launch of your toy or game by Q4 of 2024. With guidance from The Toy Coach, you'll discover the critical importance of understanding the toy market and setting specific, achievable goals. Learn the acronym for SMART goals and how to directly apply them to your toy development process. This episode is pac...
2024-01-0326 minMaking It in The Toy Industry#200: Virginia Lette Interviews Azhelle Wade The Toy CoachTo celebrate Episode 200 of Making It in The Toy Industry, something special is underway. Joining The Toy Coach, also known as Azhelle Wade, is Virginia Lette, an accomplished Australian radio and television presenter. She is renowned for co-hosting Eclipse Music TV for three years and serving as a Weekend News and Sport Presenter for WIN News Tasmania. Virginia has also hosted over 500 episodes of the Morning Kids Podcast. Beyond her professional achievements, she is a dedicated mother, entrepreneur, and an aspiring toy creator.Azhelle Wade is thrilled to have her on the show, picking up where the 100...
2023-12-2049 minMaking It in The Toy Industry#198: Speed Up Your Toy or Game Invention Process With AIHave you ever wondered how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the toy industry? From speeding up the toy invention process to comparing traditional and AI-assisted methods, AI is transforming how we create and innovate. Dive into this engaging exploration of AI’s role in the toy industry.In this episode, join The Toy Coach as she shares insights from her talk at the People of Play Innovation Conference. Discover how AI can enhance market research, ideation, product visualization, and even prepare you for your next big pitch. Get ready to be amazed by practical AI applications that ar...
2023-12-0630 minMaking It in The Toy Industry#196: Instant Insights Into The Toy Industry Uncovered at ChiTag Part 2 of 2Listen in as The Toy Coach conducts several mini interviews for a deep dive into the heart of toy innovation at CHITAG, part of the People of Play Week and Innovation Conference. Episode 196 offers a unique blend of playful interviews and insightful discussions with industry innovators.In this episode, we feature a dynamic duo, Michael and Melissa Giles, founders of Chiki Chaka, who reveal the secrets behind creating a game that's as simple as it is engaging, proving that the essence of play lies in joy, not complexity. They share their journey of starting a t...
2023-11-2237 minMaking It in The Toy Industry#195: Instant Insights Into The Toy Industry Uncovered at ChiTag Part 1 of 2Are you passionate about toy design and eager to learn from the best in the toy industry? This episode of Making It In The Toy Industry takes you inside the Chicago Toy and Game Fair (ChiTag), a hub of innovation and creativity in the toy and game industry. Learn tips from show attendees who specialize in toy marketing, toy sales, and game innovation. Whether you're an aspiring toy inventor, a game design enthusiast, or simply fascinated by the world of toys, this episode includes 3 mini and action packed interviews.Listen in as Azhelle challenges her guests to...
2023-11-1632 minMaking It in The Toy Industry#191: Game-Changing Connections for Toy Inventors at People of Play WeekAre you "toying" around with an idea for a toy or game that you want to license? Don’t miss the chance to pitch and playtest that idea in 2023 at POP Week. In this episode of Making It In The Toy Industry, Azhelle Wade aka The Toy Coach, highlights a beloved toy industry event that is designed to create opportunities for toy inventors and entrepreneurs like you. Act fast because registration for this once a year in-person event is STILL OPEN.Pop in your earbuds and listen as Azhelle explains what to expect from the 2023 People of Pl...
2023-10-1824 minMaking It in The Toy Industry#190: The Best and Worst of Toy Fair and Why You Should Attend The LAST Toy Fair in New YorkWant a play by play of what worked at Toy Fair New York, and what didn’t? In this new podcast episode, The Toy Coach breaks down every day of the trade show, including setup days, and provides tips and insights to make your next show experience better. Also, if you haven’t already read it on The Toy Coach Blog, you’ll hear in this episode that New York Toy Fair is relocating to New Orleans! Dive deep into the whirlwind experience of Toy Fair, its changes and evolution. If you’re planning to launch your toy or game ide...
2023-10-1145 minMaking It in The Toy Industry#180: Trailblazing Toy Creators Share The Mission and Story Behind Their Brands [2 of 2]What happens when you’ve got a great idea for a toy, you have inventory, and you want to break into a major toy show or media event but you just simply don’t have the funds left to make it happen? Well, in the past there wasn’t an option, but now for NEW creators, there is The Toy Coach Showcase. Listen to this Part 2 Episode where we explain what The Toy Coach Showcase is and how you can get involved. This showcase has become an industry game-changer as it provides a more affordable entry point for aspiring creato...
2023-07-0535 minMaking It in The Toy Industry#176: How To Prepare For Your Next Specialty Toy Trade ShowIf you want to get your toy or game product into toy stores, have you considered starting with specialty stores first? In this episode of Making It In The Toy Industry, learn how you can start selling your toys in specialty retailers. If you don’t know what a specialty toy retailer is, don’t worry! This episode has got you covered. You’ll learn what specialty toy retailers are, how to connect with owners of specialty toy stores, and why you might want to start your journey as a toy entrepreneur in the specialty market. This episode...
2023-05-2429 minMaking It in The Toy Industry#175: The Impact of Toy Guns: A Tough ConversationIn this thought-provoking episode of Making It in The Toy Industry, host Azhelle Wade and returning guest Marjorie Spitalnik dive into a sensitive but crucial topic - the impact of toy guns on children and the potential connection to real-life gun violence. Given the alarming statistics of gun violence in the U.S., they explore the responsibility of toy makers and the toy industry as a whole in shaping children's perceptions of violence and gun use.Marjorie, founder of Little Rebels, shares compelling anecdotes from parents about the positive influence of her Plush Doll Line. Yet, this...
2023-05-1739 minMaking It in The Toy Industry#173: AI-Powered Toy Design [Part 2 of 2] Building a Million-Dollar Toy Line with the Help of AIAre you curious about the potential of AI in the toy industry and how it can revolutionize the way we create and develop products? This eye-opening part 2 podcast episode delves into the power of AI, particularly the new AI called Auto GPT, and its capabilities to generate business plans, toy ideas, and game ideas. Discover how AI can lead the brainstorming, research, and business planning process, and learn how Gen Z is shaping the future of AI use in the workforce.In this episode, The Toy Coach discusses their experience using Auto GPT, accessible through a web-based...
2023-04-2626 minMaking It in The Toy Industry#172: AI-Powered Toy Design [Part 1 of 2] Building a Million-Dollar Toy Line with the Help of AIAre you curious about how AI can revolutionize the toy industry? Do you want to know how AI can help in designing and marketing a toy product? If so, then this podcast episode is for you. Join The Toy Coach in this insightful episode as she explores the potential of AI in toy design and marketing.In this episode of the Making It In The Toy Industry Podcast, The Toy Coach shares her experience in using an AI language model called Agent GPT to generate ideas for a toy product. From creating a unique toy name to...
2023-04-1937 minMaking It in The Toy Industry#171: Toy Path QUIZ: Are You a Toy Inventor, Entrepreneur, or Executive?There are many paths you can take in the toy industry, but the 3 most common paths that most new creators fall into are Inventor, Entrepreneur, and Executive! In today's episode, The Toy Coach is back to explain the differences between the two and point out why you might be both. Azhelle walks you through the meaning of each toy path, what you can expect, and how you could benefit from even switching your toy path.In today’s toy podcast, you will learn what aspects of being a Toy Entrepreneur, Toy Inventor, and Toy Executive are the sa...
2023-04-1223 minMaking It in The Toy Industry#167: The GREAT Toy and Game Idea Bootcamp - Join Now!Visualize, Validate, and Vow to make your toy or game idea real this year with accountability and guidance from The Toy Coach team! Inside this Bootcamp, you’ll get step by step training and accountability to visualize and validate your toy or game idea FAST. We’ll spend 5-days in a private Facebook community, where I’ll teach you my streamlined 6-step concept development process over 3 LIVE trainings. In just 3 hours and 5 days you can completely change the way you approach toy development from scratch.If you have an idea that you aren’t sure is a “toy”, stick...
2023-03-0848 minMaking It in The Toy Industry#162: The Remarkable Journey of David Vonner: From Marvel Dreamer to Toy LegendHow do you go from a dreamer with comic book aspirations to a toy industry legend and award-winning toy designer? Today’s guest shares his incredible journey as an artist, parent, and toy designer from the 1990s until now. His toy journey will inspire you to take a risk, put in your all, and go that extra mile.David Vonner’s original dream was to be an illustrator for Marvel Comics. However, his family and those surrounding him encouraged him to go down a path that would ensure a good career. After attending the Art Institute of Phil...
2023-02-011h 25
Making It in The Toy Industry#160: Top Tips for Creating a Neighborhood Toy Store with Theresa DuncanHave you ever dreamed of creating your own neighborhood toy store? Even if that’s not your toy industry dream, today’s episode is full of valuable tips for any toy industry entrepreneur. Today’s guest started a toy store in her local community with her dad, and turned into a successful family business over the eight years it has been open. Listen to the episode to find out about the differences between starting a digital business and a brick-and-mortar business and how a business plan can give you a solid framework for success.Today’s guest, Theresa...
2023-01-181h 05Making It in The Toy Industry#159: How AI-Powered Chat GPT Can Generate Toy and Game ConceptsWith AI-Powered Chat GPT, generating toy and game ideas has never been easier. If you are in the process of developing a toy or a game but are stuck in the concept phase, this week’s episode is one you cannot afford to miss. AI-Powered Chat GPT can generate “creative” toy & game ideas quickly and easily - and all you need to get started is a single sentence. Chat GPT was released in November of 2022, and is known for its ability to code, write stories, and even music. But today we’re giving this clever chatbot a new challenge…to come up...
2023-01-1138 minMaking It in The Toy Industry#157: In-Person Interviews with Entrepreneurs At Chicago Toy and Game Week [3 of 3]The Toy Coach Team ventured out to the windy city to set up a live podcast recording booth at Chicago Toy and Game Week, also known as CHITAG by Mary Couzin and People of Play. This annual, public toy and game fair is where toy and game brands connect with the consumers who love their products, debut new lines, and marketing activations.During this 2 day fair, I interviewed 10 toy and game creators during this fair to learn about their toy journeys and ask them to share any toy biz wisdom they’d gathered along the way. This is...
2022-12-281h 00Making It in The Toy Industry#156: In-Person Interviews with Entrepreneurs At Chicago Toy and Game Week [2 of 3]The Toy Coach Team ventured out to the windy city to set up a live podcast recording booth at Chicago Toy and Game Week, also known as CHITAG by Mary Couzin and People of Play. This annual, public toy and game fair is where toy and game brands connect with the consumers who love their products, debut new lines, and marketing activations.During this 2 day fair, I interviewed 10 toy and game creators during this fair to learn about their toy journeys and ask them to share any toy biz wisdom they’d gathered along the way. This is...
2022-12-2140 min